Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice the distinct characteristics of each. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its crisp, light tactile feedback that provides a unique marbly sound profile during use, giving it qualities such as 'clacky,' 'high-pitched,' 'resonant,' 'snappy,' 'bouncy,' and 'polished.' On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean lacks a specific standout feature but still offers a tactile experience. If you are looking for a switch that delivers a satisfying and distinctive tactility with an interesting sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) might be the way to go. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Ocean switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches that are equipped with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows light to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic. The similarities in their top housing material suggest that users can expect a similar sound profile from both switches, making them popular choices for those who prefer a more defined typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Ocean switches utilize nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics, creating a unique typing experience that is favored by many enthusiasts. Despite having different top housings, the shared bottom housing material indicates that users can anticipate a similar typing feel and sound when using either of these switches, highlighting the importance of the housing material in determining the overall switch characteristics.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switches results in different impacts on the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will play a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. This division of materials offers users a dynamic typing experience that combines the unique attributes of both polycarbonate and nylon, making each keystroke distinct and satisfying. Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Ocean switches showcase how housing materials can significantly impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches, catering to the preferences of users seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
The comparison between the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch reveals some key differences. The Baby Kangaroo has a slightly higher actuation force at 59 grams compared to the Ocean's 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, the bottom out force of the Baby Kangaroo is 67 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Baby Kangaroo requires a bit more force to fully press down the key compared to the Ocean. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Ocean due to its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's 4 mm travel distance. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who need fast key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch provides a deeper key press experience, which may be more satisfying for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) catering to speed and the longer travel distance of the Outemu Ocean catering to depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for travel distance in a mechanical keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for $5.50.
The Outemu Ocean comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its unique combination of clacky and marbly qualities, producing a sharp, bright, and resonant sound profile that can be compared to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished, offering a super responsive typing experience with a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's feel is unknown, making it challenging to determine how it compares to the Baby Kangaroo (V2) in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Ocean tactile switches each have their own distinct sound and feel characteristics. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its crisp tactility and marbly sound profile, the specifics of the Ocean switch remain a mystery. As such, if you enjoy the sound and feel of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2), you may get similar results when using the Outemu Ocean switch, but it's ultimately best to try out both switches yourself to determine which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force of None and prefer a different sound and feel, the Ocean switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
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